When Do You Say ‘Merry Christmas’?

I've gotten some odd looks the last few times that I've used these words... Am I using them incorrectly?

Can someone transport me to the days of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers? That's the time period I believe I was destined to be a part of. Maybe I was there in a past life. When I watch old movies, I love to see how people interact with one another. Smiling, waving and saying 'Merry Christmas." When I try to implement these practices into every day life, I get weird looks.

For instance...

The other day I was at home and there was a knock at the door. It was the UPS man dropping off a package. Obviously he was in a hurry because he was walking away before he even gave me the box. Right as he was about to turn down the hall, I wished him a joyful "Merry Chrismtas." Maybe I threw him off guard, but he turned toward me and tilted his head. Then he mumbled a Merry Christmas back.

I've also had people not even respond to my Christmas wishes.

Of course, not everyone is like this. Some people smile warmly and respond with their own jovial "Merry Christmas." But I'm left wondering if I am using these wishes in the wrong context, or if I'm simply too early in the season. I figured the week leading up to Santa's arrival would be the best time to do it.

Do you wish strangers a Merry Christmas in the month of December? Or just on Christmas eve and Christmas Day? Tell us in the comments below.